4 Reasons For The Nocturnal Behavior Of Cats
Cats are complex animals with behaviors that differ from humans. Although they already cause curiosity by themselves, the explosion of energy that characterizes the nocturnal behavior of cats tends to attract attention.
Cats and their behavior throughout history
Going back in time, the testimonies of Ancient Egypt are the first to register the presence of these felines. At that time they discovered the usefulness of these animals to hunt birds, rats, mice or snakes and, thus, they considered them allies.
In Ancient Greece and during the expansion of the Roman Empire they did not give special relevance to this animal. However, in the Middle Ages they were considered, especially black cats, as a symbol of evil due to their active nocturnal behavior.
They believed that he was the incarnation of the devil and, therefore, an indispensable companion for witches. In many cases, women were accused of being witches for the simple act of caring for a black cat.
For that reason, a crusade against cats was carried out, which almost caused their extinction. And the most striking consequence was the rapid increase and expansion of rats and mice, which led to the spread of diseases such as the plague.
Finally, in the following centuries it was accepted as a domestic animal and appreciated for its hunting instinct in the face of pests. From the seventeenth century, he began to be the protagonist of stories and fables due to his mysterious, cunning and charming character.
The nocturnal behavior of cats
Of all the characteristics that can attract attention, one of the main is its ability to sleep. These cats spend most of the day sleeping.
It has been estimated that the time they sleep corresponds to 47% to 65% of the total. Within that period of time, not only the time they spend sleeping is calculated, but also the time of drowsiness.
The African ancestors of cats have nocturnal habits. Although the domestication process has largely changed their behavior, most cats are active at night and early in the morning.
Among the different reasons that can cause this behavior, we mention the following:
Large amount of energy
Cats have a large amount of energy that is necessary to deplete in order for them to rest and rest. For this reason, it is advisable to distract the cat with games during the day to be able to sleep at night.
Among the different games that can be used, it is advisable to use objects that allow the cat to play by itself. In most cases, animals are home alone for a long period of time, so this is a way to keep them active.
Among the games, they can be bought or simply reused objects found around the house. Cats are extremely curious and love to hide in empty places.
For example, a cardboard box is a highly valued source of entertainment. However, the cat can also be stimulated by building mazes with tubes through which balls pass or by ‘chasing’ mice tied to a rope.
Hunting instinct
As already mentioned, cats are very energetic. For this reason, if during the day they have hardly exercised, during the night they will not stop until they use up their energy.
One of the most striking behavioral traits is when the cat suddenly runs from one place to another. It is a way to burn off excess energy, as well as hiding in places and jumping to the ankles, or biting the ears or toes.
Disease
As with human beings, if a cat is unwell or ill, it will try to express it. Therefore, it may be one of the reasons why he meows or does not stand still at night.
Perhaps another reason is that it is not possible for them to fall asleep, which leads to insomnia. As they cannot express exactly what is happening to them, if strange nocturnal behavior is observed, it is advisable to visit the vet.
They don’t have a routine
When it is night and you want to sleep, the last thing you want is for the feline companion to meow and jump from one place to another. Sometimes they do it because they are hungry and, depending on the moment, they do it to attract attention.
One solution is to establish a routine of exercises or games or other ways to entertain him during the day. If this is not possible because the owner is not at home, a shelf or bed can be placed next to a window. Thus, the cat will be entertained by observing what is happening outside and will sleep less.
Another recommended option is to establish a meal schedule to avoid hunger meows at night. Thus, if dinner is at 10 at night, the cat will get used to not asking for more food after that time; therefore, it will adapt its behavior to that of the human.
The innate curiosity in them, as well as the energy they show, is appreciated by the owners. However, it is preferable that the cat and the owners lead a similar lifestyle, which allows them to interact at the appropriate times of the day.
